The Deans Legal Services

Lynda Bellingham Sons disappointed by actions of her widower

This tragic case shows where a loyal wife and mother wanted to use the tax advantages of leaving her estate to her third spouse, trusting that he would respect her wishes and look after her adult sons. While her husband has not officially commented, her sons are concerned at the lavish lifestyle he seems to be leading since their mother’s death and that they will not receive any inheritance from her estate and that this is not what she would have wanted. A simple life interest trust would have ensured that her husband was looked after, receiving income for life, and the capital preserved for her sons and heirs.